Introduction: Anglers seeking protection from the elements have a dizzying array of choices but one brand remains the gold standard. Simms has been making fishing specific apparel since 1980 and they've been doing it with high end fabrics and designs catering mostly to the fly fishing industry. Several years ago, they turned their attention to the bass market. Their resulting success is the primary reason we now see so many other manufacturers in this same market space.

Up until now, the Simms gold standard has come at a price similar to the precious metal.

Unfortunately, up until now, the Simms gold standard has come at a price similar to gold with their top end Pro Dry suit now retailing for over $1,000 for the complete suit. Recognizing the need to offer a more affordable suit with similar, top end styling, they're now offering a suit they believe is up to that challenge. Here's our look at the new Challenger rain suit from Simms.

Quality/Construction: How did Simms bring the cost of their suit down so far? By building a new garment from 2-layer Toray Fabric instead of Goretex.

While the Goretex brand is certainly well know and well regarded for its water shedding capabilities, it is by no means the only water proof game in down. The Toray Fabric Simms
is using for their Challenger suit is designed to deliver similar water
resistance but without the hefty price tag.

Introducing the Challenger rainsuit built for more real world budgets.

How do you test a rainsuit when the lakes are too swollen from recent rains to allow boating? You hit the streets and run errands in the suit!

Real World Tests:
Of course, how a garment feels in hand and how it performs out in the elements are two different things. How ironic it was I received my rain suit just in time for the deluge California received this past winter only to be sidelined because it rained too much to get out on the water to fish!

Priced at only $400 for the entire suit, the
Challenger offers excellent protection.